Overview
- Lewis filed the lawsuit that was reported on Aug. 5–6, 2026, saying his booked hours fell from 287 in 2023 to 74 in 2024 and just 14 in 2025 after the park reopened.
- He alleges Disney favored younger performers when shows resumed and that several older, long‑time casual regulars were passed over for work.
- Lewis says management told him full‑time cast were being prioritized but that at least one younger replacement held the same “casual regular” status he did.
- The suit claims he was then blackballed after a coworker spread an unproven rumor about a comment on a director’s sexual orientation and that no witness substantiated the allegation.
- He says he felt forced to retire in March 2026 and is seeking special and exemplary damages plus attorney fees while Disney has not provided a public comment, a dispute that could prompt closer scrutiny of post‑COVID rehiring and benefit rules for casual performers.